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FAQ
General - What is the Materials Design Map
What is the Materials Design Map?
The Materials Design Map is a free online tool and interactive database that connects designers, studios, and companies worldwide working with sustainable and circular materials. It helps users discover eco-friendly material solutions and promotes the development of local circular economies.
Is the Materials Design Map free to use?
Yes. Browsing the map and submitting a material are both completely free - there is no participation fee or subscription.
How does the interactive map work?
Each material or project in the database is linked to a geographical location. You can explore the map to see where sustainable material projects are based, or filter the database by category, such as material type or waste source.
How often is the database updated?
The database is updated monthly with new materials, designers, studios, and companies working on sustainable material research.
Who is behind the Materials Design Map?
The project was founded by Teo Sandigliano and is curated with the support of a Scientific Committee comprising designers, researchers, and journalists specialising in sustainable design and materials. The Committee oversees the selection of projects featured on the platform.
Submitting a material or project
Who can submit a material to the Map?
Any designer, studio, startup, or company that has created or is developing a sustainable material can submit a project, free of charge.
How do I submit my material?
You can submit your project here. Once submitted, it will be reviewed by the Scientific Committee. If your project is selected for publication, we will contact you to request all the information and materials needed to feature it on the platform.
Is there a cost to be featured on the Map?
No. Participation is entirely free - there is no listing fee and no commission on sales generated through the platform.
How are materials selected?
Submissions are reviewed by the Scientific Committee, a group of designers, researchers, and journalists with expertise in sustainable design and circular materials, who evaluate each project before it is added to the database.
How long does it take to be published after submitting?
Review times vary depending on the volume of submissions, but since the database is updated monthly, accepted projects are typically added within one of the following monthly updates.
What are the benefits of being featured on the Map?
Being listed means becoming part of a curated, international showcase seen by designers, brands, and curators. Selected projects have already been chosen for editorial features and exhibitions during Milan Design Week, turning a simple listing into concrete visibility and opportunities.
Can companies apply, or only individual designers?
Both. The Map welcomes independent designers, studios, startups, and companies of any size, as long as the material or project has a sustainable or circular focus.
Content, resources and press
What is "Design Stories"?
Design Stories is the Map's editorial section: a collection of articles and stories about designers, studios, and projects pushing the boundaries of design culture, material research, and circular design.
Where can I find research and resources on circular design?
The Open Resources page collects a curated selection of platforms, studies, and initiatives on circular design and sustainable materials that have inspired the Map and its partners.
Is there a reading list on sustainable materials and design?
Yes, the Books page lists a selection of publications recommended by the Map's team and Scientific Committee.
How can I stay updated on new materials and features?
You can follow the Materials Design Map on LinkedIn and Instagram, where new projects, editorial stories, and events are shared regularly.
How can I get in touch with the team, or request the press kit?
You can reach the team through the Contacts page for general questions, submissions, or to request the project's press kit.